In a surprising development, Adam Newman has risen to become a true “hero” amidst the chaos in Genoa City. While Billy Abbott was preoccupied with personal calculations and inadvertently hurt Phyllis by distracting her when she needed help most, Ian Ward took the opportunity to launch a deadly attack. Ian revealed to Jordan his next plan, which was to destroy Phyllis to cover up the tracks of his wrongdoings. Phyllis, in a lonely and life-threatened situation, thought she wouldn’t survive.
Just then, Adam Newman appeared in a timely and brave manner to rescue Phyllis from Ian Ward’s hands. This action of Adam surprised many, because he and Phyllis had a history of fierce confrontation. However, in the life-and-death moment, Adam chose to do the right thing, proving that deep down he still has the good qualities of an honest man. Adam’s salvation not only saved Phyllis’s life but also created a major change in the community’s view of him. Conversely, Billy Abbott faces harsh criticism for his selfishness and lack of responsibility. After the attack, Ian Ward had to temporarily retreat, but he vowed to return with an even more brutal plan. Adam is currently standing in a new position, no longer an outcast but a protector, bringing new hope to those facing Ian Ward’s threat. This act of heroism has also complicated his relationship with Victor, who is unsure whether to praise his son or suspect his motives. For Phyllis, Adam is the only person who stood by her when everyone else turned their backs, creating an unexpected bond that could change the future of Genoa City.
Maranello’s Pantheon: A Decade of Driving the Best Ferraris
For a brand synonymous with passion, performance, and unparalleled automotive artistry, distilling Ferrari’s illustrious history into a definitive list of its greatest road cars is akin to selecting the most breathtaking notes in a symphony. With over ten years immersed in the visceral, analogue, and increasingly digital world of automotive evaluation, I’ve had the profound privilege of experiencing a significant number of Maranello’s mechanical masterpieces. The challenge, as always, isn’t finding cars worthy of inclusion, but rather narrowing down the sheer volume of brilliance to a select few that truly stand apart.
This isn’t just about raw horsepower figures or lap times, though those are undeniably crucial metrics in the pursuit of automotive perfection. It’s about the intangible essence that defines a Ferrari: the soul-stirring engine notes, the telepathic steering, the chassis that communicates every nuance of the road, and that indescribable feeling of being intrinsically connected to a finely honed machine. As we look towards 2025 and beyond, the evolution of Ferrari continues to push boundaries, integrating cutting-edge hybrid technology and sophisticated electronics without sacrificing the core DNA that has made these cars so revered.
From the raw, unadulterated ferocity of the F40 to the sophisticated hybrid prowess of the latest creations, this selection represents not just cars, but moments in automotive history that have defined benchmarks and inspired generations of enthusiasts. We’ve considered everything from track-focused weapons to elegant grand tourers, all bearing the iconic Prancing Horse. The debate over which Ferrari is truly the “best Ferrari” is endless, but after extensive driving and critical assessment, these are the Maranello masterpieces that have left an indelible mark.
The Pinnacle of Performance: Iconic Ferrari Road Cars
Ferrari 458 Speciale: The Natural Aspirated Masterclass
Before the widespread adoption of forced induction, naturally aspirated V8s were the heartbeat of Ferrari’s mid-engined sports cars. The 458 Speciale, however, elevated this formula to an art form. With a staggering 597 horsepower emanating from its 4.5-liter V8, its specific output of 133 horsepower per liter remains a testament to engineering prowess. But numbers only tell part of the story. The true magic of the 458 Speciale lies in its aural symphony – a high-revving crescendo that culminates at a dizzying 9,000 rpm. This isn’t just an engine; it’s an instrument. Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of weight reduction, evident in the Speciale’s 90kg advantage over its standard counterpart, combined with meticulously chosen components, ensured the chassis was the true star. Fast, focused, and utterly enthralling, the 458 Speciale is unequivocally one of the greatest mid-engined supercars ever conceived, a benchmark for driver engagement that still resonates today. Its blend of raw emotion and precision handling cemented its status as a truly exceptional example of best Ferraris.
Ferrari F50: The V12 Hypercar Icon
Following the legendary F40 was no small feat, but Ferrari met the challenge head-on with the F50. This hypercar represented a radical departure, harnessing a Formula 1-derived, naturally aspirated V12 engine within a carbon-fiber chassis and an open-top body. While contemporary reviews sometimes cited it as softer than the F40, my experience reveals a different truth: the F50 offers an even more sublime and immersive road-going experience. The sheer reach and responsiveness of its 4.7-liter V12 are breathtaking, its integration as a stressed member of the chassis creating a palpable vibration that permeates the cabin from the moment it roars to life. This intensity is matched by the car’s overall focus, encouraging even the most cautious driver to push the limits, despite the inherent intimidation factor of piloting a V12 hypercar on a challenging road. The F50’s wonderfully communicative steering and its superlative powertrain cement its place among the greatest performance cars of all time.
Ferrari 12 Cilindri: A Bold Evolution of the V12
The latest chapter in Ferrari’s V12 legacy, the 12 Cilindri, arrives as the successor to the already formidable 812 Superfast. Its striking, Daytona-inspired design certainly ignited conversation, but it’s the unwavering commitment to a large-displacement, naturally aspirated V12 in an era of electrification that has truly captured the automotive world’s attention. While some of the aural drama of its predecessor may have been refined, the V12 itself remains a masterpiece. Despite a slight reduction in peak torque compared to the 812 Superfast, the 12 Cilindri boasts an impressive 819 horsepower, reaching its crescendo near a staggering 9,500 rpm, echoing the performance of the exceptional 812 Competizione. The hyperactive controls, a Ferrari hallmark, remain, but this latest iteration leans more towards the grand tourer ethos. It offers enhanced predictability at the limit and supreme comfort for extended journeys, perfectly embodying the modern super GT brief. The new Ferrari 12 Cilindri price places it firmly in the rarefied air of elite automotive ownership.
Ferrari 296 Speciale: The Future of the Supercar
The advent of a V6 hybrid powertrain in a car bearing the hallowed “Speciale” badge might have raised eyebrows, but the 296 Speciale silences all doubts with its astonishing capabilities. The moment you engage the throttle, the ferocious acceleration is accompanied by a wailing V6 note that, remarkably, possesses a more captivating character than the twin-turbo V8 of the 488 Pista. The car’s inherent weight seems to dissipate with the first turn of the wheel, revealing a fluidity and lightness of touch that defines the most advanced modern Ferraris. With a combined output of 868 horsepower, the 296 Speciale transcends mere power figures; it’s the seamless augmentation of the 3-liter twin-turbo V6 by its electric counterpart that creates an illusion of a far larger, more potent engine. This instantaneous response allows for incredibly precise driving, the car feeling laser-guided without any hint of nervousness. The sophisticated chassis electronics cater to drivers of all skill levels, rewarding them with an exhilarating experience. Ferrari’s focus on driver feel and pure enjoyment, rather than solely on lap times and G-forces, is palpable. This is a Maranello great in the making, redefining what a hybrid supercar can be.
Ferrari 812 Competizione: Unleashing V12 Fury
A recurring theme across modern Ferraris is their prodigious, almost shocking, performance. While Ferraris have always been swift, the current era has pushed horsepower figures into the realm of six, seven, and even eight hundred, demanding an extraordinary level of nerve and skill to exploit fully. Among these titans, the 812 Competizione stands out for its sheer, unadulterated thrill. While the 812 Superfast straddled the line between GT and supercar, the Competizione unequivocally belongs to the latter. With 819 horsepower and a piercing 9,500 rpm redline, it is monumentally fast, capable of eliciting expletives from even the most seasoned drivers. The car’s aggressive aerodynamics, with intricate bodywork, flicks, and splitters, assert its formidable character before you even embark on a journey. The introduction of an independent rear-wheel-steering system, coupled with revised chassis electronics, works in concert to manage its immense power, delivering a driving experience that is both scintillating and remarkably organic. For those seeking the ultimate expression of a front-engined V12 Ferrari, the Competizione is a compelling choice.
Ferrari 430 Scuderia: The Track-Day Predator
Emerging as Ferrari’s second road-racer special after the 360 Challenge Stradale, the 430 Scuderia built upon the foundation of accessible performance. By 2007, Ferrari was at the forefront of technical innovation, and the Scuderia exemplified this with its 4.3-liter F136 V8 engine producing a potent 503 horsepower. Crucially, this power arrived no sooner than 8,500 rpm, a characteristic of naturally aspirated engines from an era predating widespread turbocharging. This was also a time before the dominance of dual-clutch transmissions, and the Scuderia’s single-clutch “F1” gearbox, one of the most advanced of its kind, proved an exceptional partner for spirited road and track driving, a far cry from earlier, more demanding iterations. Featuring Ferrari’s E-Diff, adaptive dampers, and F1-Track traction control, the Scuderia’s systems worked in harmony to enhance performance rather than simply curtail it. Despite the increasing integration of electronic aids, the 430 Scuderia retained a visceral and thrilling character, a testament to its Pininfarina-designed beauty and its enduring appeal as a track-focused Ferrari.
Ferrari 550 Maranello: The Modern Grand Tourer Reimagined
In the lineage of front-engined V12 Ferraris, the 550 Maranello stands as a pivotal model. Often compared to the legendary Daytona, its shark-like styling, though perhaps not universally adored upon its debut, possessed a sharp, purposeful aesthetic that mirrored its predecessor. Unlike the 2+2 456, the 550 was a pure two-seater, effectively replacing the Testarossa-derived 512M. Its arrival marked a significant leap forward in modernity and approachable handling, a direct benefit of its front-engined configuration. The transaxle gearbox ensured ideal weight distribution, while the 478 horsepower 5.5-liter V12 provided ample performance. This car wasn’t just a GT; it was a formidable super GT that also found success in motorsport, with numerous privateer entries and a GTS class win at Le Mans in 2003. For discerning collectors seeking a classic V12 driving experience, a used Ferrari 550 Maranello offers exceptional value.
Ferrari Roma: Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Performance
Ferrari’s previous front-engined V8 models, the California and Portofino, while competent, never quite captured the full essence of the brand. The Roma, however, represents a triumphant correction, proving that the formula itself wasn’t flawed, but rather the execution. This is a car that embodies classic Ferrari beauty, with subtle, flowing curves replacing the more aggressive designs of recent years. It eschews overt aerodynamic addenda in favor of understated elegance, all while delivering impressive grand touring capabilities through its refined and comfortable cabin and compliant ride quality. More importantly, the Roma seamlessly integrates genuine Ferrari driving dynamics, a feat that eluded its predecessors. The 612 horsepower variant of the front-mounted, twin-turbo 4-liter V8 delivers potent acceleration, and the handling is precise and engaging, complemented by Ferrari’s characteristically quick, yet reassuringly stable, steering. While tire choice can influence ride comfort, the Roma strikes a near-perfect balance, making it a compelling option for those who appreciate Ferrari grand touring with a modern twist.
Ferrari F40: The Uncompromising Icon
Few vehicles truly embody the spirit of a “race car for the road” as definitively as the Ferrari F40. Sitting within its spartan cabin, surrounded by a fuzzy fabric dashboard, visible body sealant, and drawstring door pulls, one can easily imagine being a suit-and-helmet clad IMSA driver. Despite its fearsome reputation as one of the most raw and unadulterated road cars ever produced, the F40 is surprisingly forgiving, unless deliberately provoked. The ride quality is remarkably supple, and the steering is light. While the gearshift and heavy clutch demand a deliberate driving style, the F40 responds with a relentless surge of power from its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8. With fine throttle adjustments and adept hands, its ferocity can be tamed, making it no more challenging to drive than many contemporary supercars. Its aggressive, square-jawed styling, pure motorsport feel, and analogue approach to turbocharging grant the F40 a distinctive character that may never be surpassed. It remains a benchmark for vintage Ferrari performance.
Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: V12 Perfection Realized
At its launch, the F12 Berlinetta was widely regarded as the pinnacle of front-engined V12 Ferrari engineering. Addressing the sole drawback of its predecessors – the single-clutch transmission – it adopted a swift dual-clutch unit. The 6.3-liter V12 was enlarged, boosting power to 730 horsepower and elevating the intensity to stratospheric levels. Notably, the F12 was more compact and featured a more refined interior than the car it replaced, while also shedding 70kg. These enhancements coalesced into a car of astonishing composure and capability, yet brimming with exhilarating performance. The F12 masterfully blended the attributes of a supercar and a grand tourer, perhaps for the first time in Ferrari’s history, even hinting at hypercar territory with its shared V12 architecture and vocal signature with the LaFerrari. Its versatility is immense, allowing it to tackle a wide range of driving scenarios, limited only by its two-seater configuration. While its steering could occasionally feel overly reactive for its size, the F12 Berlinetta remains a sublime example of performance GT cars.
Ferrari F80: The Hybrid Hypercar Revolution
The F80 represents a seismic shift in Ferrari’s hypercar lineage, arriving over 40 years after the first iteration and marking the first all-new hypercar since the LaFerrari in 2012. It introduces several groundbreaking elements, including for the first time in this category, all-wheel drive and a V6 hybrid powertrain, a configuration not seen since the F40. Concerns about whether a V6 could truly deliver the gravitas expected of a flagship Ferrari, especially at its multi-million-pound price point, were understandable. However, after experiencing the F80 firsthand, it’s clear that it feels incredibly special, a culmination of Ferrari’s engineering acumen translated into a driver-centric language. Its extraordinarily complex systems – from Multimatic dampers to active aerodynamics and intricate powertrain controls – meld into a cohesive whole, elevating the driving experience without compromising its purity. The V6 hybrid powertrain delivers phenomenal performance and response, accompanied by a captivating soundscape within the cabin. The F80 enthralls as only a Ferrari hypercar can, albeit in ways that redefine our expectations. This is truly a new Ferrari model that pushes the boundaries.
Ferrari Daytona SP3: A Modern Homage to the V12 Era
In many respects, the Daytona SP3 is a spiritual successor to the iconic F50. Its extravagant, flowing lines, removable roof, and mid-mounted V12 echo the 1995 hypercar, but the driving experience places it in an entirely different league. Nearly three decades of technological advancement have propelled its performance and character into new stratospheres, though the level of driver involvement is a subject of nuanced discussion. As the first mid-engined, non-hybrid V12 Ferrari since the Enzo, the SP3 offers an exceptionally organic connection to the road. The raw thrill of planting the throttle, managing wheelspin, and shifting through gears as the V12 screams towards its 9,500 rpm redline delivers a primal hit of adrenaline unlike any other. Yet, as is the hallmark of Ferrari, the SP3 inspires confidence despite its monumental performance and eye-watering price tag, aided by an E-Diff and electronic aids borrowed from series production models. With all 599 examples already spoken for, its desirability is undeniable, solidifying its status as a true automotive icon. This car represents the pinnacle of V12 Ferrari road cars.
Ferrari LaFerrari: The Hybrid Flagship Redefined
The LaFerrari faced the immense task of succeeding the Enzo, a hypercar that, while revolutionary for its time, was characterized by a capricious single-clutch transmission and a raw, unrefined nature. The LaFerrari, in contrast, presented a more approachable and usable hypercar. Its potent 6.3-liter V12 engine, coupled with a sophisticated hybrid system, delivered broad-ranging performance through a responsive dual-clutch transmission. The interior quality and comfort were significantly enhanced, making it a more refined and luxurious proposition. Many described its driving feel as akin to a large V12-engined 458, a testament to its balanced dynamics and accessibility. Yet, it retained an undeniable sense of occasion and specialness. The LaFerrari was a crucial step in Ferrari’s hybrid journey and remains a highly sought-after example of exclusive Ferrari models.
Ferrari 812 GTS: Open-Top V12 Grandeur
While the 812 Superfast was arguably more of an evolution than a revolution compared to the F12 Berlinetta, iteration on excellence invariably breeds more excellence. The introduction of the convertible-roofed 812 GTS added a new dimension to this already exceptional platform. Removing the roof brought the driver closer to the magnificent V12 symphony, a sound that few, if any, other cars can rival, particularly when compared to the 12 Cilindri Spider, where the fury was somewhat tempered. A remarkable achievement of the GTS was the near-imperceptible compromise in structural rigidity and, consequently, driving dynamics, which only served to enhance the already exhilarating 812 experience. The rarity of the GTS, having arrived late in the 812’s production life, contributes to its sustained value in the used market, making it a compelling proposition for those seeking drop-top Ferrari performance.
In this curated selection, we’ve traversed decades of automotive innovation, driven by an unwavering commitment to exhilarating performance and unparalleled driving pleasure. Each of these Maranello masterpieces represents a distinct facet of Ferrari’s enduring legacy, from the raw emotion of naturally aspirated engines to the cutting-edge sophistication of hybrid powertrains.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Ferrari remains at the forefront, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Whether you are a seasoned collector or an aspiring enthusiast, understanding the significance of these iconic models offers invaluable insight into the soul of the Prancing Horse.
To truly appreciate the artistry and engineering that defines these legendary machines, there is no substitute for experiencing them firsthand. We invite you to explore the world of Ferrari further, perhaps by visiting a local dealership or attending an exclusive track day event. Discover for yourself which Ferrari masterpiece speaks most profoundly to your own passion for driving.
